Open · Closes in 3 days
Applications close
Oct 10, 202611:59 PM CDTCloses in 3 daysCloses Oct 10, 2026 · 3 days left
Open · Closes in 3 days
Applications close
Oct 10, 202611:59 PM CDTCloses in 3 daysCloses Oct 10, 2026 · 3 days left
Arts center · Denton, TX, United States · 1 program
“Contemporary craft and digital art — works that juxtapose concepts and materials”
The Greater Denton Arts Council proudly presents the 40th annual International Materials: Hard + Soft Contemporary Craft + Digital Art Competition and Exhibition. Recognized as one of the premier craft exhibitions in the country, Materials: Hard + Soft began in 1987 and was originally initiated by area artist Georgia Leach Gough. The exhibition celebrates the evolving field of contemporary craft and the remarkable creativity and innovation of artists who push the boundaries of their chosen media.
Traditionally, this exhibition has celebrated the finest artworks crafted from materials such as ceramic, wood, fiber, metal, glass, paper, and mixed media. In 2025, we grew to expand the accepted media list to include digital art and conceptual art. We invite artists to submit their innovative works that juxtapose concepts and materials in unique and thought-provoking ways.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an evolving tradition that honors creativity and craftsmanship. The jurors for the 2027 show are being determined at this time. EXHIBITION RUNS: February 26 - May 8, 2027.
Juror Awards: two $1,000 Juror's Choice Awards and four $450 category awards
Compensation details
The Greater Denton Arts Council will provide Jurors Awards: Two Awards of $1,000 - "Juror's Choice Award" (chosen independently by each juror). Four Awards of $450 - "Best Quality Craftsmanship", "Best in New Media", "Most Innovative Use of Materials" & "The Storyteller" (best compelling narrative).
3 items to prepare.
Requirements
Submit 1-3 applications, each application = 1 artwork entry. Media per entry: 1-3 images (min 1, max 3), up to 1 audio file, up to 1 video, 1-5 media total.
Works produced in any of the craft media: clay, fiber, glass, metal, paper, wood, or any combination of craft media, and conceptual art and digital media are acceptable. Entries must be the partial or complete work of the submitting artist. Ready-made materials are accepted. All work must have been completed within the past three years (2024 - 2026) and not previously exhibited at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center. Local, national, and international artists are encouraged to apply. All work must be ready for installation. Submissions are restricted to a weight limit of no more than 75 pounds. GDAC reserves the right to exclude any entry that presents complex installation or assembly problems. Submission limit: 3 (each application = 1 artwork entry). Eligible applicant types: Artist.
Applications close
Oct 10, 202611:59 PM CDT
Program begins
Feb 26, 2027Through May 8, 2027
Jurors to-be-announced. Jury runs October 12, 2026 through October 26, 2026.
Arts center · Denton, TX, United States
A nonprofit arts council in Denton, Texas offering galleries, events, and arts education.
3 items to prepare.